Akwesasne, NY- March 2, 2017, DISH Network subscribers in 26 markets, which include 33 network affiliates across 39 states, experienced its second major retrans blackout in the past three years. DISH Network claims that Hearst wants above-market rates, nearly doubling the current rate, along with other unreasonable demands, while also not allowing the network to match rates to other TV providers.
Hearst claims that DISH Networks is seeking the right to carry their stations below the market rate. Their previous deals expired at the end of February 2017 but were granted a two-day extension in hopes of reaching an agreement. Currently all Hearst TV stations are blacked out until further notice.
Mohawk Networks, LLC made a statement on April 24 that they are currently seeking an alternative route to deliver NBC News Channel 5- WPTZ to its subscribers, with hopes to have it airing again on Mohawk Networks cable service by the end of this week.
Networks Operations Center Supervisor, Jason Cole, responded to ATV Staff stating that “NBC News Channel 5- WPTZ is in dispute between DISH Network and Hearst TV. We are currently working on an alternative way to broadcast WPTZ and bypass the current issue we are experiencing.â€Â Mohawk Networks service provider is DISH Network, leaving the LLC at the mercy of their provider.
CEO of Mohawk Networks, Jeff Beekhoo stated that, “Currently we are waiting for some hardware to be delivered to complete the installation. There is no conflict between DISH and Mohawk, it is an issue between DISH and their contract with the local affiliates.â€
DISH Network has 13 million subscribers across the country; millions of which have been affected by these blackout markets. Negotiations are ongoing, and the blackout will remain on the 26 markets affected until further notice. 
By: Ohseraseia:hawi
